Paramount Pictures has announced a renewed commitment to the **Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT)** franchise following the successful release of **Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem**. The studio is shifting its focus to expand the TMNT universe, unveiling plans for a sequel, a new animated series, and several merchandise initiatives. This comes after the recent acquisition by **Skydance**, which has allowed Paramount to rethink its strategy for the beloved characters.
As part of this revitalization, Paramount is set to introduce a live-action/animated hybrid project in **2028**, following the sequel to Mutant Mayhem, scheduled for release in **2024**. Speaking to the **Hollywood Reporter**, **Josh Silverman**, president of global products and experiences at Paramount, outlined a series of initiatives designed to further elevate the TMNT brand.
New Merchandise and Licensing Partnerships
In a significant shift, **Mattel** has been named the global master license holder for TMNT toys, taking over in **2027**. This follows the announcement that the longtime TMNT toy manufacturer, **Playmates**, will lose the license. Mattel plans to develop a wide range of products, including action figures, playsets, vehicles, collectibles, and roleplay items. Notably, the new toy lines will coincide with the release of **Mutant Mayhem 2** and the anticipated **2028** film.
Paramount is also focusing on expanding its licensed tie-in fiction. A middle-grade book series is in development with **Scholastic**, alongside a novelization of the **Last Ronin** storyline from **Abrams**. These literary projects aim to engage a younger audience and expand the narrative landscape of the TMNT universe.
New Media Ventures and TMNT-Themed Restaurants
In addition to toys and books, Paramount is launching a new CG web series titled **Teeny Mutant Ninja Turtles**. This 30-episode series, designed for **YouTube**, will depict the four turtles as young ninjas in training, appealing to a new generation of fans.
For TMNT enthusiasts in **Santa Monica, California**, **Monterrey, Mexico**, and **Sao Paulo, Brazil**, three new TMNT-themed pizzerias are set to open. These restaurants will offer a unique dining experience, themed around the turtles’ favorite food, pizza. The initiative aims to capitalize on the franchise’s popularity while creating an engaging environment for families.
While these plans signal a robust future for the TMNT brand, the absence of a new television series has raised questions. After the cancellation of **Tales of the TMNT**, which aired for two seasons, there is currently no new series in development. This marks the first time since the conclusion of **Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles** in **2018** that a new show has not been announced.
As Paramount navigates this new chapter with the TMNT franchise, the potential for additional television content could still emerge. With the studio’s renewed focus and strategic partnerships, fans are optimistic about the future of their favorite heroes in a half shell.
